Grafton schools, Bread Guy Breads cook up experience for older students with special needs

The Grafton schools are planning to raise up its 18-22 program by teaming up with Bread Guy Breads to start a bakery.

A bakery? It’s not as far-fetched as it might seem at first glance. 

The 18-22 program is for young adults with special needs who need assistance in life and vocational skills post-high school. While many gain experience through internships, this takes the additional step of getting students out of Grafton High School and into a community space especially designed for them.

Superintendent of Schools Jay Cummings got in touch with Chuck Brown with a suggestion: if his Bread Guy Breads wanted to move out of his home kitchen and into a larger space, the school department might help not only with space, but with assistance from the students in the 18-22 program.

“This is a much needed program for Grafton,” said Brown, who spent 22 years in education, 15 as a high school principal, before retiring in the first year of COVID-19, taking up sourdough, and starting his own micro-bakery. “I’m happy I can help and be part of it. It’s a big investment for me in terms of scaling up, but it feels right to be helping.”

The school department plans to lease 3,000 square feet at 204 Worcester Street, with 600 square feet set aside for the new bakery to rent. The Bread Guy will be bringing in ovens, mixers, cooking supplies, and ingredients. The school department will add an industrial sink and refrigerators.

Funding for the project, slated to start in the fall, will be provided by School Choice funds. The goal is to tuition in students from other towns, covering all costs.

The remaining space may eventually be leased to other businesses who want to partner with the program.

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